Orofacial Myology: Exploring Available Treatments and Benefits

At Connect2Care, our Myofunctional therapists or Orofacial Myologists work hard to expand their knowledge to provide high-quality care to our clients. 

What Is Orofacial Myology?

Orofacial myology, also known as myofunctional therapy, focuses on assessing and treating various issues related to the muscles in the mouth and face. It involves targeted exercises to enhance functional muscle use, addressing a wide range of concerns & treatments, including:

  • Assessment of Tongue Tie: Evaluating and treating restricted tongue movement.
  • Screening for Sleep & Airway Issues: Identifying potential sleep-disordered breathing and airway obstructions.
  • Mouth Breathing and Open Mouth Posture: Addressing habitual mouth breathing and correcting open mouth posture.
  • Breaking Oral Habits: Helping individuals stop thumb-sucking and other detrimental oral habits.
  • Tongue Thrust Swallowing: Correcting improper swallowing patterns.
  • Lisps Associated with Tongue Thrust: Treating speech issues related to tongue thrust.
  • Chewing Difficulties: Improving mastication and overall oral function.
  • Impacted Dentition and Post-Orthodontic Intervention: Managing dental alignment issues and providing post-braces care.
  • Pain in the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ): Relieving TMJ pain through targeted exercises.
  • Asymmetrical Appearance of the Face or Lips: Correcting muscle imbalances that affect facial symmetry.

Our therapists at Connect2Care are dedicated to providing personalised treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs. We recognise Myofunctional Therapists’ significant role in their invaluable contributions to optimising muscle function and airway health.

Signs You Might Need Orofacial Myology Therapy

Here are some signs that you or someone you know may benefit from orofacial myology therapy:

  • Taking supplementary breaths through their mouth or sounding out of breath when reading aloud.
  • Chapped, dry lips.
  • Daytime sleepiness with dark circles under the eyes.
  • Snoring or audible breathing and/or tooth grinding at night.
  • Recurrent need for grommets and/or nasal sprays.
  • History of speech articulation difficulties (e.g. lisps).
  • Previous difficulties latching and the presence of oral ties.
  • Dental crowding or no space between baby teeth.
  • Malocclusions (e.g. open-bite, deep-bite, under-bite, over-jet).
  • Oral habits (e.g., nail-biting, thumb-sucking, or prolonged dummy use).
  • Elongated facial features and overactive facial muscles.
  • Jaw pain and associated discomfort.
  • Attention, concentration, behavioural concerns and anxiety.

If you or a loved one presents with multiple signs from the list above, you may wish to consider myofunctional therapy! Reach out to our team today for more information or learn more about our services here.

The Role of Myofunctional Therapists at Connect2Care

Our qualified Connect2Care  Orofacial Myologists are committed to providing high-quality care through personalised orofacial myology treatment plans. Our approach ensures that each client’s unique needs are addressed, promoting optimal muscle function & improved overall health.

For more information, please feel free to contact our friendly team directly. You can also learn more about our other services, including NDIS Speech Pathology, NDIS Physiotherapy, NDIS Occupational Therapy and Early Intervention Support Services.